Ronald G. Harmsen

Ronald G. Harmsen, 76, of Waupun, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 17, 2017 at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac with family by his side.

Ron was born on December 22, 1940 to Bernie and Carrie Mulder Harmsen in Alto, WI. On August 10, 1961, he married the love of his life, Kathy Veleke. Together for 56 years, Ron and Kathy built a wonderful and happy life together, raising three strong and independent children around the core principles of unconditional love and hard work. Family was always the priority in Ron’s life and his free time reflected that, spending much of it on the lakes and rivers of Wisconsin fishing, camping and gathering his family close around a good campfire. When his children were older, Ron and Kathy purchased a small piece of heaven on Pelican Lake where new memories, traditions and joys were formed. Here he would spend many days with his wife, his children and his grandchildren by his side. When not teaching the grandkids to fish or roast marshmallows he could be found on his swing watching the troubles of the world drift by with the Brewers playing softly in the background.

Ron was an avid hunter and fisherman and took great pride in fishing with his son on Lake Erie. He and Kathy also enjoyed traveling and fell in love with the beaches in Mexico, forming many memories together. He proudly attended his grandchildren’s sporting and school events and was always bringing treats for his “grandpuppies”. Ron committed 40 plus years of service to Silgan Containers as a foreman and mechanic and selflessly volunteered as a firefighter in Brandon and Waupun for more than 35 years.

Ron was a quiet man who loved greatly, but in subtle ways that his family and friends will always remember and appreciate. Above all else, Ron was a good, kind and loving man that left an impression on everyone who had the pleasure of crossing his path. Although his time seems to have passed in an instant, his memories will last forever.

Ronald is survived by his wife of 56 years, Kathleen of Waupun; two sons: Tim (Cheryl) Harmsen of Ohio and Tom (Amy) Harmsen of Fond du Lac; a daughter, Teresa (Brad) Fischer of Oshkosh; 4 grandchildren: Paige and Ashley Gorst, and Noah and Emma Harmsen; a brother, Alvin (Dorie) Harmsen of Waupun; and nieces and nephews.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; and an infant daughter, Lisa.




Friends and relatives may call on the family on Friday at the church from 11 a.m. until the time of service.



Funeral services for Ronald Harmsen will be held Friday, September 22, 2017 at 1 p.m. at First Reformed Church in Waupun with Rev. Barry Lang officiating.



Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.



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